Susan S. Merriam

Susan “Sue” Shaw Merriam (65) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025 from a Glioblastoma. A woman of extraordinary kindness, deep compassion and endless curiosity. Sue lived a life overflowing with faith, love, creativity, and connection.

Born in Belleville, New Jersey, and raised in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Sue later spent her senior year of high school and the following years in Linwood and Northfield, NJ. A true adventurer at heart, she studied abroad in Brazil during school, embracing the language, music, and culture with an open heart and joyful spirit—a passion for life that never faded.

Sue had a deep love of nature—especially birds. Whether birdwatching in her backyard garden or sunbathing by the pool in Delaware, she found peace and joy in the beauty of the natural world. Her flower beds and vegetable gardens were always in bloom, and she took great pride in tending to them, with her curious cat Webster watching her from every window.

Her artistic spirit shone through her drawings and paintings, and those close to her knew that when inspiration struck, she would dive into her art with passionate intensity. Then, just as naturally, she’d take a step back, letting her creativity rest like the changing of seasons—always on her own terms.

Sue found joy in travel, especially cruising, visiting with her family and snuggling with her grandson Luke. She is survived by her beloved husband, Carlton Merriam, her children, Courtney Stevenson (Justin) and Chris Wyman (Christine). Stepchildren, Lauren Merriam Sprague (James), Cari Merriam Ellermeier (Julian), Michelle, Beth, and Jen Wyman. Siblings Robin Barry (Dave) and Bob Shaw (MaryLou). Neice Erica Furfarri (Brian) and Nephew Charlie (Laura) and grandchildren Luke, Codie Jane and Reagan.

She was the heart of her family—the one who remembered everyone’s stories, who made time for real conversations, and who celebrated the small moments as deeply as the big ones. While residing in Delaware, her weekly Canasta games with close friends were more than just tradition; they were a testament to the joy she found in companionship and laughter.

Professionally, Sue’s career reflected her compassion. She began as a radiology technician working on a mobile mammogram van in New Jersey, helping women access vital screenings. Later in life, she went back to school and became a nurse—an act that speaks volumes about her unwavering dedication to the care of others. Followed by working as an assisted living care specialist for the elderly.

Sue was a woman of deep faith, and her love for Christ was evident in the way she lived—with warmth, grace, and a heart open to all. She was an extraordinary wife, mother, stepmother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and caregiver, and her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled.

She leaves behind not just a family, but a legacy of love, generosity, and compassion. We will miss her gentle spirit, her joyful laugh, her hugs, and her way of making each person feel truly seen and heard.

A celebration of Sue’s life will be held at Calvary Chapel of Aiken, South Carolina located at 1411 E. Pine Log Road on Sunday, May 18th from 5-7 pm where family and friends will gather to share memories, honor her life, and reflect on the incredible woman she was. A private graveside burial will take place at Manahath Cemetery in Glassboro, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Calvary Chapel of Aiken, South Carolina to help fund their new youth building. When donating, please select option #2, Building Fund, from the drop-down menu. https://ccaiken.org/give

SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE., AIKEN, SC 29801.